Hey girl hey! Fall is in full swing (even in humid Florida) and I am all kinds of excited about it. The changing of seasons means I get to expose Elle to random happenings like pumpkin patches and it also means I can pull out my favorite Fall-inspired nail polishes. This Makeup Wars, the girls and I decided to showcase our favorite Fall manicures. I am far from a nail artist so I kept it simple and used one of my favorite polishes out this season.

Say hello to the gorgeous Lamestain from Cult Nails’ All Access collection. I purchased all of the polishes from this collection but I adooooore this one the most.

It’s a stunning polish, right? It’s a gorgeous and rich burgundy jelly that DOESN’T look black on the nails. It is everything I could have ever wanted in Fall nail polish. To add a bit of sparkle, I added Essie’s As Gold As It Gets on top.

And since I’m as untraditional as they come, I am also loving butter LONDON’s Royal Navy as a Fall mani.

I did a horrible silver glitter nail design on top but Royal Navy is the best navy nail polish everrrrr.

Check out the polishes the Makeup Wars girls picked as their favorite Fall manicures…

I’m back with the rest of the gorgeous nail polishes from OPI’s San Francisco nail polish collection. The first half of the collection is here. The second half is full of gorgeous pinks and reds. See…

Goooorgeous!

First Date at the Golden Gate is a really pretty ruby. It wouldn’t be an OPI collection without a stunning red.

In the Cable Car-Pool Lane is lovely. Nothing says fall like a rich and creamy burgundy. This one is flawless. I applied 2 coats of it and I probably should have applied a third.

I Knead Sour-Dough is a Grandma-y shade with glam. It’s a nice rosy brown with a gorgeous hot pink shimmer. I didn’t expect to like this so much but wow. It’s very unexpected.

Embarca-Dare Ya! is a shimmery magenta. It isn’t anything special but that doesn’t make it any less pretty.

Lost on Lombard is a seasonly appropriate garnet.

It’s All San Andreas’s Fault is a mauve. It’s one of OPI’s Liquid Sands and I think it’s one of the best Liquid Sands in terms of quality. I’m not a fan of the shade but it’s certainly “interesting”.

Wharf! Wharf! Wharf! is indeed one long and annoying name. Ha! But other than that, it’s a rich and bright blue. This Liquid Sand requires very thin strokes but I have a heavy hand and applying thin strokes are never easy for me.

Alcatraz…Rocks is a blue-ish gray Liquid Sands that doesn’t look as “sandy” as the other Liquid Sands in this collection.

The entire collection…

This collection is currently available anywhere OPI products are sold. You can snag ’em for about $9 a bottle.

My little sister is jumping in to help me feature some pretty awesome skincare, cosmetics and nail polishes. You’ll be seeing her around her quite a bit! Courtney received this Spa Sonic Skin care system for review and she can’t stop bragging about it.

About 2 months ago I went to the Néu Lotus Spa at the Renaissance Sea World. I had a 45 -minute facial and a 30-minute massage. During my facial the esthetician used a Clarisonic Mia 2 on my face. I immediately fell in love with the brush and was ready to buy one ASAP. That was until I looked at the price. I don’t know about you all, but I just graduated college and working part-time so I don’t really have $150.00 to just spend on a facial brush.

The great thing about the Spa Sonic Skin Care System is that it is only $59.99 and you can get it at Target.com. The brush comes in three pretty colors including lavender, pink and white. The package comes with 2 facial brushes, a large body brush, a facial buffer, and a pumice stone to get rid of those rough spots on your elbows, knees, and heels. It also comes with 4 double A batteries so you don’t have to buy any once you make your purchase.

And now for the most important question…how well does it work? I am pleasantly surprised! This brush works pretty darn well. It is definitely a 3.5 out of 5. I’ve been using for when I first wake up in the morning. After all, that’s when the skin is at its cleanest, right? I’ve looked at my brush and would see dirt and was glad that it managed to get it all off. I was a little upset that the brush bristles weren’t as hard, but I think that is a personal preference.

I think this brush is perfect for people who aren’t ready to make the big purchase for the Clarsonic. It does a great job at getting your skin clean. The downside is that it is battery operated. Who really wants to deal with buying batteries to wash your face? It’s not ideal but that’s the small price you pay for a pretty awesome brush. I think that the Spa Sonic Skin Care System is beyond perfect for younger kids who are going through puberty. It will teach them great skin care techniques while helping remove the dirt and oil.

What do you think? Would you guys purchase the Spa Sonic Skin Care System?

Okay, I’ve totally remixed the song but for good reason. There really isn’t anything like an experience at a Disney spa. I had the opportunity to visit one last month and I am still singing praises. I grew up going to the Walt Disney World Parks but there’s another side to Disney that I had yet to uncover; it’s the serene, relaxing, indulging side of Disney. It’s the side that says “Let them go to the parks. You stay here and get pampered. You need it. You deserve it.”

Photo Source: wdwnews.com

And it’s true. Because I did need it. This spa experience will forever be etched in my mind because it was not only my first Disney spa trip but it was my first one after giving birth. There really isn’t any better reason to visit a spa, am I right?

First things first, Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. There is also one at The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. The one at Saratoga Springs Resort is nestled nicely near the resort’s majestic pool. Upon entering, you’re greeted with sweet spa trinkets, cosmetics from the Beautifully Disney spa line. After checking in your hostess leads you up the steps and to a tray of drink options. Senses plays well…on all of your senses. It starts with the sense of taste. After enjoying a few sweet sips of fresh fruit juice, you head over to the locker room and then the Relaxation Room.

The Relaxation Room was one of my favorite experiences because it felt as if I was transported into a quiet oasis where nothing mattered. Platters of spa muffins and spa water (water infused with basil and cucumbers) greeted me. I sipped on the water, closed my eyes and propped my feet up on one of the lounge chairs. I didn’t ever want to move. My name was called and I made my way to the massage room where my EXCELLENT masseuse asked me questions about any problematic areas. After the consultation he left to allow me to get comfortable and once he came back he had me take 2 deep breaths from the lavender oil on palms of his hands. The 50-minute swedish massage was more than great. It ended far too quickly and I didn’t want to get up.

After exiting the room, my masseuse had a post-massage jelly and cup of water for me. He led me to the mani and pedi room where I had my hands and feet rubbed to perfection. My wonderful manicurist gave me Mickey Mouse ears on my nails (you know…because I’m 5-years old at heart) and I was sent out into the world a changed woman.

The Senses really taps into…your senses. From the relaxing and melodic tunes, the various tastes that are being presented to you, the gentle touches of the professional spa staff; it was truly a thorough experience. But of course, this is what you expect of Disney. And as always, they never disappoint.

If you find yourself in the Walt Disney World area and in the need of some pampering, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at Senses. It’s the next best thing to hugging the Mouse.

*Disclosure: I was a part of a press trip where I received free treatments. I wasn’t paid to write this post but would you really have to pay me to talk about the awesomeness of Disney? Yeah…no.

I feel like such a big girl. I am finally caught up on reviewing summery nail polish collections and can now start cranking out Fall collections. Wee! I love when OPI does these location-themed collections. I always feel like I know a city a little better without actually going. Which probably sounds crazy but whatev. I received this collection for review and here’s the first 6 of ’em.

And I’m in love with them all. Or most of ’em at least.

Peace & Love & OPI is a gorgeous sage and eggplant duochrome. I can’t even begin to explain how much I love this polish. Duochromes are everywhere these days so I tried so hard not to be impressed but man, this baby just shines.

Keepin’ Suzi At Bay is a rich and creamy bright blue. OPI describes it as a navy blue but I find it to be more of a cobalt blue.

Incognito in Saulsalito is a dark blue that almost looks black at a quick glance. There’s nothing special to it but I love a good vampy and dark blue for the cooler months.

Haven’t The Foggiest is a foil-y and shimmery silver. Nothing out of the ordinary but somehow it fits in the collection.

Dining Al Frisco is a gorgeous blue with sweet silvery undertones. I’m not sure how unique this is but I love it anyway.

A-Piers To Be Tan is a chocolate-ly tan that I’m on the fence about. I never know how I feel about colors like this. Sometimes I like how they look and other times I’m like “Ewww!”

OVERALL: I applied 3 coats of each polish and didn’t have problems with any of them. Peace & Love & OPI really only needed 2 coats but I figured a third wouldn’t hurt. Stay tuned for my review of the next 6 of these babies.

Not too bad, huh? I was surprised at how well Clairol Professional’s new ‘Classic Collection took on my dark brown hair. I always love going lighter when it comes to hair color but it can be tricky to do so without bleaching. I’ve had some TERRIBLE experiences with bleach so I’ve left that aspect of hair coloring to the professionals. But, I’m too cheap to pay anyone to do my hair so I am often left with hoping that my demi, semi and permanent hair jobs can lighten enough. And well, this stuff surprised me.

In the previous post I talked about how super easy it was to mix up. Application took longer than I expected (you know, considering I I only have less than 2 inches of hair) but when it did take it was gorgeous!

Of course there isn’t much styling to do to your hair when it’s this long so I simply wet my hair and ran my fingers through it to get my curls to pop a bit. If I know I’m going to be out in the hot Florida sun, sometimes I’ll pile a little gel on top to help the curls stay around a bit longer but water usually works with no problem.

What do you think? I know most people go darker for the cooler months but hey, I beat to a different drum. 😎

Classic makes a comeback. Clairol Professional’s new ‘Classic Collection’ offers 16 timeless shades with a modern formula for brilliant shine and deep conditioning.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Clairol Professional via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Clairol Professional.

I know, I know. It’s as if Clumps of Mascara has turned into some kind of hair blog, right? It’s okay to switch it up every now and then, right? Through Glam Media, I was offered the opportunity to review Dove’s Daily Moisture Shampoo and Daily Moisture Conditioner. Considering I’m working with short hair again, I’m pretty open to trying many brands again. It’s been awhile since I’ve tried something from Dove so I was excited to give these a whirl.

Aside from being a bit too strong on the fragrance side, I really enjoyed these! Since I recently colored my hair, I need a ton of moisture. I don’t wash my hair Daily but if I did, I know this stuff would work beautifully.

The shampoo is on the thicker side which works for me because it makes distributing it all over my dome super easy.

I like to slather it on my hair and let is do its thing for a few minutes before rinsing out. I don’t use shampoos often because they tend to strip the hair but I found that this shampoo didn’t leave my hair as crunchy. WIN!

And then there’s the conditioner…

I can get by using this more than the shampoo because it is just so creamy and wonderful. A dollop on my head goes a long way and after letting it sit for a good 10 minutes or so, my hair is beyond silky smooth. I can even get past the strong fragrance. Dove’s hair products are a lot like their body products. The end result is always silky smooth softness!

Dove understands that having beautiful, healthy-looking hair gives you the confidence to feel your best. Whether your hair is dry or damaged, Dove has a tailor-made solution for your hair care needs. After just one wash hair is shiny, healthy-looking and full of life. Thanks to Dove, you can look and feel beautiful from the inside out.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Dove via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Dove.”

I won’t be able to make it to this fabulous expo but for my girls and guys on the West Coast, this event may be up your alley. I’m thinking beauty lovers and skincare aficandos will enjoy this expo and the entrance fee is only a cool $25. Not too shabby! Tickets are $25 for a 1-day pass and $50 for a 2- day pass. If you use the code BW2013, you can get 20% off at BeWell-Expo.com.

5 days agoby clumpsofmascaraMy coworker goes, "I haven't bought a lipstick in a year." Oh no!!! She must not know 'bout me. Tomorrow is National Lipstick Day and I've got to get her prepared! Packing her a nice goody bag of lipsticks. I'm the same way if you visit my house. NO ONE leaves empty-handed. Beauty goodies for all!

4 days agoby clumpsofmascaraSome say red lipstick isn't professional. Oh. Really? I'll make my own rules and still get the job done.

5 days agoby clumpsofmascara'Best be your on cheerleader. Don't wait for a pat on the back. Or a LIKE or comment. You don't need to have a slew of approvals from anyone. Be dynamic for YOU!

3 days agoby clumpsofmascara#iRepost@tjmaxx : "Wanted for fall: A bold new bag. - Mannnn, why can't I ever find items like this when I'm in TJ Maxx? A purple bag? I want one!!

6 days agoby clumpsofmascaraBeen tackling my hurr these days. Which is a big deal because I'm usually pretty lazy. Test drove some @LovinMyTextures products and yessss, I LOVE them! Check out my review. It's in the bio. Much love to @lovettehair for my tri-color situation. ❤️

21 hours agoby clumpsofmascara#iRepost@occmakeup : "Introducing our first look at #LipTarRTW , launching on August 14th! Left to right: Vintage, Black Metal Dahlia, Lydia, Anime & Rx! Stay tuned as we reveal the next 5 shades next week!" --- Soooo, makeup and OCC Lip Tar fans, what do we think about this new packaging? I'm kinda excited about it!

5 days agoby clumpsofmascaraNail polishing in a parking lot. Look. Gotta pamper when and where you can.

1 week agoby clumpsofmascaraScooped up some new head wraps from @thewraplife . In loooooove with these prints. Can't wait to chop them for mommy & daughter twin wraps.

4 days agoby clumpsofmascaraSome of y'all have your coffee and then crazy folx like me blend up spinach, an apple and an entire lemon to drink. Had one kid in my stomach craving it and a kid on the outside steal half. Righteous.

2 days agoby clumpsofmascaraI neeeed time to myself. Marriage and parenthood did not change this. Every morning, I wake up earlier than everyone else. And just be. No demands. No rushing. I do what I want. I sip my tea and pray and read and polish my nails. Or I do nothing. It does SO much for my sanity and peace. Mamas and daddies, give it a try. - [NOTE] This likely doesn't work with newborns. Those tiny humans own every fiber of your being. Happy Friday!

3 days agoby clumpsofmascaraGood morning, risk takers! Today I'm doing something incredibly challenging and scary. I make it a habit to push myself to the limit often. You should, too. Come on. DO IT NOW!!